Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB21

Filed
2/12/25  
Out of Senate Committee
3/4/25  
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the establishment and administration of the Texas Strategic Bitcoin Reserve for the purpose of investing in cryptocurrency and the investment authority of the comptroller of public accounts over the reserve and certain other state funds.

Impact

This bill is expected to have significant implications on state education laws. If passed, it will mandate schools to implement specific safety measures and create mental health support systems that align with state guidelines. The introduction of these requirements could lead to additional funding for schools to implement the necessary programs and technologies aimed at bolstering security and providing mental health resources. However, the bill may also place financial burdens on school districts, which will need to allocate funds to meet the new standards.

Summary

Senate Bill 21 aims to address multiple facets of education, including the enhancement of school safety protocols and the incorporation of mental health resources into school curricula. The bill focuses on ensuring that educational institutions provide a safe learning environment while also promoting mental health awareness among students. Proponents of SB21 argue that by enhancing school safety and addressing mental well-being, the overall educational experience can be improved, ultimately benefiting students and teachers alike.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB21 appears to be largely positive among educators and mental health advocates who believe that the provisions will lead to healthier and safer classroom environments. However, there are concerns regarding the sufficiency of funding and resources to support the implementation of the bill's mandates. Critics raise issues about the feasibility of enforcing the new requirements without additional state support, fearing that failing to do so could result in more significant disparities in school safety and mental health services across districts.

Contention

Notable points of contention include disagreements over the allocation of state funding to support the bill's initiatives. Some legislators express concerns that the bill may lead to inequitable distributions of resources, particularly in districts with less financial flexibility. Additionally, discussions have surfaced regarding the balance between ensuring safety and maintaining the openness and accessibility of educational environments. Opponents worry that an overemphasis on security may inadvertently create a more restrictive atmosphere in schools, which could negatively impact student well-being and learning.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

  • Chapter 403. Comptroller Of Public Accounts
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 2256. Public Funds Investment
    • Section: 004
    • Section: 004

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

TX HB1598

Relating to the establishment of a bitcoin reserve within the state treasury and the management of cryptocurrencies by governmental entities.

TX HB4258

Relating to the authority of the comptroller of public accounts and certain political subdivisions of this state to invest certain money in cryptocurrencies.

MD HB454

Digital Asset and Blockchain Technology Task Force - Establishment

TX HB4908

Relating to the establishment of the Texas prosperity payout fund; imposing taxes on the gross revenues of and consumption by certain industry participants; authorizing administrative penalties.

AZ HB2654

Cryptocurrency and blockchain commission

VT H0370

An act relating to cryptocurrency and protecting the public welfare

AZ HB2387

Cryptocurrency kiosk; license; fraud prevention

ME LD1286

Resolve, to Establish the Commission to Study Fostering a Positive Economic Environment for Blockchain Technology and Cryptocurrency